"We want to express our deep sympathy to the families, all the families that are impacted," Superintendent Maggie Griffin said through tears at the 1 p.m. news conference. "We want to express our appreciation to the community."

Malone was taken to Singing River Hospital for his injuries Thursday, and he was later transferred to the University of South Alabama Children's and Women's Hospital, where he died.

The boy's mother, Lakenisa Nobles, said Malone was a "sweet boy."

"If you knew him, you loved him," she said. "He wasn't no bully. He wasn't a stranger to no one."

Nobles thanked the hospital staff, school and community for their support during her brief press statement. She did not take any questions.

When asked if there were prior incidents involving Malone being bullied, Griffin said the district was not aware of any, but noted it is still under investigation.

LaMarge Miller, who is Malone's grandmother, said there was a
bathroom incident involving both boys the day prior to the altercation,
and they were sent to the office for it.

She's still trying to piece together what happened Thursday.

"I'm
going to let them do their little investigation and I'm going to talk
to the chief of police ... and find out what he's saying," she said.

Miller said the 12-year-old boy transferred to Magnolia Middle School in January from the Pascagoula School District.

"He loved his school," she said. "He had friends. He don't mess with nobody."

Officials did not release the grade, age or name of the other student involved in the altercation.

"Our hearts are broken," Magnolia Middle School Principal JoAnne Pettaway, noting counselors are on site to speak to students and staff.

"We are coming together not only as a school and faculty, but also as a district and a community to support our students," she said.

Moss Point Police Chief Keith said his department is assisting the district in the investigation.

"Details of the investigation will not be released," Davis said. "However, the families should feel comforted in knowing the police department is reviewing all of the evidence. During incidents such as this, it is imperative to ensure all evidence is uncovered carefully and without prejudice."

Davis said parents should talk to their children about the tragedy.

"If there is any information out there, certainly the police department wants to know it, regardless of how insignificant you think it may be," he said.